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Global Animal Guide

Where Do Sun Bears Live?

Quick answer

Sun Bears are native to Asia. Lowland and montane tropical rainforests of Borneo, Sumatra, peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

By the Global Animal Guide editorial team Last reviewed How we research & review

Native range

Lowland and montane tropical rainforests of Borneo, Sumatra, peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Continents and countries

Sun Bears occur across Asia. Local populations depend on intact habitat, prey or food plants, and freedom from persecution.

Habitat types

Lowland and montane tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia provide shelter and feeding grounds. Seasonal movement may follow rains, prey migrations, or breeding cycles.

Range changes

Historic range may exceed current distribution. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate shifts continue to affect where sun bears persist today.

FAQs

Where do sun bears live in the wild?

Lowland and montane tropical rainforests of Borneo, Sumatra, peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

What do sun bears eat?

They feed on omnivore — fruit, honey, insects, small vertebrates, and palm hearts, varying by season and local habitat.

Are sun bears endangered?

Sun Bears are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

How big is a sun bear?

Adults weigh about 45 kg and reach roughly 1.4 m long.

Sources

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